1990 Rover - Austin 200 216 SLi 1.6i 16v from UK and Ireland

Summary:

Fast, frantic, but not a head turner

Faults:

Nothing serious, although the tyres wear down fast, and I have a leaky boot.

General Comments:

I couldn't believe how fast the car was, especially for a Granddad looking car. I used to have a 1.3 Escort which was so slow it's unreal. The only problem is the car loves to be revved above 4000 rpm, where it literally takes off, and I don't want to blow the engine. I am told that the Honda engines are pretty good though.

27th Nov 2001, 07:00

Service it, change oil/filters/plugs and keep the coolant in good condition with a good mix of antifreeze, and these lumps will never blow. I have a couple of 827's with the Honda 2.7 lump and regularly service them and drive them hard, I also have a Rover 820 Turbo that is kept in good fettle, but had a cracked head. Once removed I noticed no wear in the bores, pistons anywhere, not bad for 160,000 miles. A mate has a turbo as well, again, at high mileage, no wear.

Brilliant cars IMHO, only beaten by the Jaguar XJ40, of which I own a £250 bargain!!

1990 Rover - Austin 200 214 Si 1.4 from UK and Ireland

Summary:

A heavy car to drive but a stunner to look at

Faults:

The only fault I have had is that the earth lead coroded and broke away cutting all power and the engine in a dangerous postion.

General Comments:

Very roomy compared to other similar sized cars I've had, interior trim very nice for the age of the car and the exterior looks stunning although to improve looks still further fit a chrome grille from a later model. Si model really requires power steering, key fob central locking would have been a definite bonus but not missed unless you've had it before.

1990 Rover - Austin 200 216 Gsi 1.6 petrol from UK and Ireland

Faults:

Needed new alternator - replaced under warranty.

General Comments:

Looks classier than Escort and Astra rivals. Feels superior inside as well with wood and chrome used to good effect. Generally reliable. Ride can feel unsettled at times, even though the car 'sits' quite high. Good performance and economy, definitely worth a look.

1990 Rover - Austin 200 214 Si 1.4 petrol from UK and Ireland

Faults:

Petrol pump replaced (7 years).

Clutch linkage arm snapped (5 years).

General Comments:

I bought the car with 23,000 miles at 2 years old and have added 131,000 miles. The above are the only faults to emerge during my six years with the car. It's not an exciting car but it's comfortable, quiet, starts every time, is well finished and is roomy compared to the newer model.